Grand Theft Auto (GTA) VI is reportedly lagging behind its development causing a major delay that could derail the Rockstar Games' planned release window.

Last year, Rockstar unveiled the first trailer for the upcoming game revealing that it will be launched in 2025 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

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GTA VI Release Window Could Move to 2026

With only just three months from its announcement, sources familiar with the situation revealed that the initial target is to release the game in early 2025. However, Kotaku shared that it is more possible for the game to be released in late 2025 with a slight chance of pushing it to 2026.

According to the report, the production is currently falling behind its target. This insider report could be the reason why Rockstar has implemented a return-to-office mandate starting this April.

The leaked email to staff cited that the new work setup is part of the preparation for the final stages of the development of GTA VI. Rockstar head of publishing, Jenn Kolbe explained that the move will increase productivity and heighten the security against potential leaks.

Rockstar Prioritizes Strict Schedule for GTA VI

The higher-ups are said to be worried about the company's ability to deliver the final stages of the game without sabotaging the initial schedule and letting it get delayed until 2026. Regardless, sources have shared that the project has avoided internal delays since its announcement.

A recent fan theory could also be right at the moment, stating that Rockstar is planning to release it by Spring 2025. The theory was based on an early March job listing that suggests the localization work on the game will be concluded in the first quarter of 2025.

As of writing, Rockstar has still not committed to a fixed schedule for the release of the game.

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